Teachers often play a vital role in encouraging their students not only in learning, but also in feeling good about themselves and broadening their views of the world. When Charlie Owens received this letter from his teacher after taking a standardized test, it speaks volumes as to how some teachers really do get to know the children in their care.
The headteacher, Rachel Tomlinson, sent the letter to every student at Barrowford Primary School in England and her unusual letter went viral around the world.
The letter reads:
“Please find enclosed your end of KS2 test results. We are very proud of you as you demonstrated huge amounts of commitment and tried your very best during this tricky week.
“However, we are concerned that these tests do not always assess all of what is that make each of you special and unique.”
“The people who create these tests and score them do not know each of you — the way our teachers do, the way I hope to, and certainly not the way your families do. They do not know that you can play a musical instrument or that you can dance or paint a picture. They do not know that your friends count on you to be there for them or that your laughter can brighten the dreariest day.
“They do not know that you write poetry or songs, play or participate in sports, wonder about the future, or that sometimes you take care of your little brother or sister after school. They do not know that you have travelled to a really neat place or that you know how to tell a great story or that you really love spending time with special family members and friends.
“They do not know that you can be trustworthy, kind or thoughtful, and that you try, everyday, to be your very best… the scores you get will tell you something but they will not tell you everything.
“So enjoy your results and be very proud of these but remember there are many ways of being smart.”
Share this letter if you appreciate the words of wisdom!
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